It was an ominous start for the reigning MLS Cup champions in February, but Inter Miami has rebounded well since then. Two wins in MLS action were followed by a scoreless road draw in the Round of 16 first leg in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
There are some new faces on the team, with big shoes to fill following the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. But Lionel Messi is still there, and that might be all that matters. A healthy Messi is crucial for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team with the World Cup nearing.
Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul held out of Charlotte FC match to rest for Nashville SC second leg
Messi is absent for Inter Miami's Saturday night game against Charlotte FC, though. While his absence has sparked some concern, there’s nothing to worry about for his fans. Messi is not injured, and he's only being held out to rest for next week's second leg against Nashville SC.
Teammate Rodrigo De Paul is also being held out by Javier Mascherano and the coaching staff. They are exercising caution, prioritizing a CONCACAF Champions Cup elimination game over an early-season MLS contest.
This means that Messi will have to keep waiting to reach the incredible milestone of 900 goals. Messi’s goal against DC United on March 7 brought him one tally shy of the stunning mark. His next chance to get it will be against Nashville next Wednesday, March 18.
